Trip Information
Trip Duration
10 Nights 11 Days
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Destination
Nepal
Maximum Height
4068 m
Guiding Method
Trekking
Best Season
All Time
Highlights
- Discover one of the finest short and exclusive destinations in the Everest region.
- Easily accessible trailhead with an 8 to 9-hour drive from Kathmandu, eliminating the need for a domestic Lukla flight.
- Witness astonishing views of the world's tallest peaks, such as Mt. Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Cho Oyu, Gaurishankar, Lhotse, Nuptse, Number, Thamserku, and Mera Peak.
- Experience the tranquility of the peaceful trekking trail, distinct from the bustling Everest base camp trek route.
- Explore the significant ancient Buddhist Thupten Choeling Monastery, adding a cultural dimension to your Peak Peak journey.
- Marvel at mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets over the towering peaks of the Everest region.
- Summit Pikey Peak (4,065m) is a legendary spot claimed by Sir Edmund Hillary as one of the best places to view Mt. Everest.
- Encounter countless ancient Buddhist monasteries, gompas, stupas, and mani stones along the trail, providing a spiritual ambiance.
- Immerse yourself in the local Sherpa culture and traditions in the Solu region of Solukhumbu district.
- Discover lesser-known trekking routes in the lower Everest region, offering the opportunity to aovid crowds during peak trekking seasons in Nepal.
- Get to taste a variety of local delicacies from the Sherpa community.
Get ready for an adventure in the Himalayas on the Pikey Peak trek, where you can soak in the breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, just like Sir Edmund Hillary (the first person to summit Everest) did! This trek to Pikey Peak is a hidden gem as it is less crowded than the famous Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek.
Also, this trek doesn't go too high, so it's suitable for all ages, as long as someone is up for a bit of walking on the mountainous terrain. If you want a short, easy trek with incredible vistas of Everest, Pikey Peak trekking is the perfect choice.
The Pikey Peak trek, starting from Dhap, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Everest region, offering a refreshing alternative to the long and arduous EBC trail.
From Dhap, the trail winds through culturally rich villages like Jhapre, where you can immerse yourself in the authentic lifestyle of the local Sherpa communities. Here, you can experience traditional Sherpa cuisine, sample local delicacies, and engage with the warm hospitality of the villagers.
Continue along the route; you ascend towards the Pikey Peak base camp, passing through pristine mountainous terrain adorned with streams, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. Along the way, you'll be treated to striking vistas of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Mount Everest.
Reaching the Pikey Peak base camp, you can relax and recharge before your final ascent to the summit. You'll find a peaceful spot at the base camp surrounded by wild mountains. It's the best place to soak in the amazing beauty of the landscape all around you.
On your way up Pikey Peak, you get more and more excited with each step as you get closer to the top. The rugged terrain and high altitude are challenging, but the remarkable views awaiting you make it all worthwhile. Within 3 to 4 hours from the base camp, you stand atop Pikey Peak at an altitude of 4,065m.
From this breathtaking vantage point, Pikey Peak unfolds a panorama unlike any other. On a clear day, the entire range stretches before you, from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east. Iconic giants like Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Annapurna will leave you speechless.
But the journey isn't over yet! The descent is just as rewarding. The trail winds through a tapestry of forests filled with rhododendrons, birch, pine, cedar, and juniper. Especially in spring, the vibrant blooms create a symphony of color and fragrance.
Along the way, you'll pass charming Sherpa villages like Junbesi. Here, you can explore ancient monasteries like Thupten Choeling and savor delicious, home-cooked Sherpa meals prepared with fresh local ingredients.
The cultural immersion is a big part of the Pikey Peak trek. You'll witness the Sherpa way of life firsthand, from traditional villages to vibrant Buddhist monasteries and shrines that dot the landscape. These glimpses offer a unique window into the region's rich heritage.
As you bid farewell to the mountains and villages and traverse Taksindu La Pass, you eventually arrive at Phaplu village, known for its quaint domestic airport. From here, your Pikey Peak trekking journey concludes with a scenic road journey back to Kathmandu. The trek may end, but the memories of conquering the peak and the incredible sights will stay with you forever.
But what truly sets the Pikey Peak trek apart? Here, you’ll trade the crowded trails of Everest Base Camp for a tranquil escape into the serene embrace of the Himalayas. The trek offers breathtaking Everest views without trekking to high altitude, making it accessible to a wider range of trekkers, from novice to experienced.
As you navigate the Peak Peak trails, you’ll delve into the rich Sherpa traditions, exploring their charming villages and ancient monasteries. And finally, from the summit of Pikey Peak, witness a panoramic paradise unfold before your eyes – a symphony of Himalayan giants stretching as far as the eye can see.
Thus, the Pikey Peak trek isn’t just a trek. It’s a unique blend of stunning scenery, cultural immersion, and a sense of serenity, making it the perfect choice for your unforgettable Himalayan adventure in Nepal.
Route Map
Altitude Graph
Itinerary
On your arrival in Kathmandu, be prepared for breathtaking sights as you fly over the Himalayas, catching glimpses of lush green hills and charming valleys.
Upon exiting the airport, you'll be warmly greeted by a representative from Nepal Ascent Treks waiting for you in the parking lot. They'll assist you with customs formalities before taking you to your hotel.
Once you have settled into your accommodation, take some time to relax and unwind. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the local area or rest at the hotel.
Later in the evening, join your fellow trekkers and guide for a welcome dinner hosted by Nepal Ascent Treks. It's a beautiful opportunity to bond with your group and get excited about the adventure ahead. After dinner, return to your hotel for a peaceful night's rest.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
On the second day, you'll visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites within Kathmandu Valley. After sightseeing, get ready for the trek ahead.
Your first stop is Pashupatinath, a revered site for Hindu pilgrims worldwide. This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its spiritual significance and intricate architecture. Witness the death rituals and ceremonies along the banks of the Bagmati River, gaining insight into Hindu customs and beliefs.
Next, you'll visit Boudhanath, home to one of the largest stupas in the world. This magnificent structure exudes a sense of tranquility and spirituality, drawing pilgrims and visitors alike to circumambulate its prayer wheels and soak in its serene ambiance.
Swayambhunath, perched atop a hilltop overlooking Kathmandu Valley, offers panoramic city scenes below. Also known as the Monkey Temple, this old Buddhist site is adorned with colorful prayer flags and intricate carvings, making it a mesmerizing sight.
Your exploration culminates at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site with historical significance. Marvel at the intricately carved palaces, temples, and courtyards that once served as the royal residence of the Malla kings.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit Kumari Ghar, home to the living goddess Kumari, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
In the evening, gather for a small meet-up with your guide, who will provide a detailed briefing on the Pikey Peak trek itinerary.
Feel free to ask questions as your guide walks you through the gear and equipment checklists. Should you need to acquire any items that need to be added, Thamel offers many trekking shops where you can rent or purchase everything you need to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Your Pikey Peak trek journey begins with a thrilling jeep ride from Kathmandu to Dhap Bazaar. The drive unfolds alongside the picturesque Sunkoshi River, guiding you through the charming Ghurmi village.
As you traverse the diverse landscapes of Nepal, soak in the tranquil beauty of lush forests, quaint settlements, terraced fields, and lively rivers. The countryside's vibrant essence unfolds before you, making the journey an unforgettable experience.
After a few hours on the road, you reach Okhaldhunga, marking the halfway point of your journey. From here, it's approximately a three-hour drive to the Dhap trailhead, offering scenic vistas along the winding descent.
Arriving in Dhap after nearly seven hours of travel, check into your hotel and indulge in a refreshing shower, preparing yourself for the adventure ahead. Take this time to rest, rejuvenate, and gear up for tomorrow's trekking expedition.
Overnight stay in Dhap.
Today marks the true beginning of your trekking journey toward Pikey Peak. Venturing through the lower part of the Solukhumbu district, you'll encounter Sherpa villages, each offering a unique glimpse into local lifestyles, cultures, and traditions distinct from the renowned Everest region of Nepal.
Before setting foot on the trail, fuel up with a delightful breakfast. Then, start your trek, traversing the picturesque countryside of Nepal. The path winds through uphill and downhill, revealing captivating mountain panoramas along the way.
Despite being your first day on the Peaky Peak trail, be prepared to be mesmerized by the majestic sight of towering peaks like Mt. Everest, Numbur, and Karyolung.
As you trek, immerse yourself in lush forests, cross babbling streams, and pass by idyllic farmlands where locals tend to their crops and livestock. Witness the rhythm of rural life, from farmers working in the fields to yaks grazing peacefully in the meadows.
Jhapre sits perched over a deep valley with the spectacular sight of Mount Everest and Numbur Himal. When you arrive, settle into a cozy tea house. Later, walk around the village to see a small Buddhist monastery and stupa. Then, relax and get ready for tomorrow's adventures.
Overnight stay in Jhapre.
Today brings you one step closer to Pikey Peak as you journey toward its base camp. Venture deeper into the remote Solu region, and you'll be treated to more intimate views of the Mount Everest range along the trail.
After completing your morning routines, set out on your trek for the day. The path gradually ascends a grassy ridge, reaching Bhulbhule, where stunning Himalayan vistas greet you.
Continuing onwards, the trail veers to the right towards Pikey Peak. Along the way, you'll encounter captivating mani stone walls, colorful Tibetan prayer flags, and ancient yak shelters dotting the landscape.
Passing through a forested area beneath Taklung Danda, you'll be surrounded by vibrant rhododendron trees, particularly in the spring season of Nepal.
As you approach the base camp, the tree line fades away, marking your entry into the alpine zone. After a few hours of rugged trekking, you'll arrive at Pikey Peak Base Camp.
If you're still energized, consider hiking further up the trail to aid in acclimatization. From the viewpoint, soak in the mesmerizing sunset over Pikey Peak's summit and witness the spectacular valley below. Afterward, return to Pikey Peak Base Camp and rest.
Overnight stay at Pikey Peak Base Camp.
Today is the major highlight of your Pikey Peak trek, as you rise early to witness the majestic sunrise from the summit. As the first rays of sunlight paint the sky, creating an amusing silhouette of the world's tallest peaks, you'll be filled with awe and wonder.
The trail from the base camp to the Pikey Peak summit is challenging yet exhilarating, with a steep ascent over rocky terrain. But as you near the top, the anticipation builds, and reaching the summit fills you with a sense of achievement.
At the summit, you'll be treated to a mesmerizing display as the sun gradually illuminates the sky with red, orange, pink, and golden hues, casting its warm light on the snow-capped peaks below.
The view from Pikey Peak is truly enchanting, with Mount Everest shining brightly in the morning sunlight. After soaking in the sweeping vista, begin your descent towards Jasmane Bhanjyang. The journey back is just as thrilling, winding through picturesque landscapes and charming hillside villages.
First, you'll descend to the Pikey Peak Base Camp before continuing to the quaint village of Loding, where many trekkers choose to spend the night after summiting Pikey Peak. Following a descent along the ridgeline, you reach Jasmane Bhanjyang, offering another vantage point with stunning scenery.
Overnight stay in Jasmane Bhanjyang.
Today's trek leads you to the culturally vibrant Sherpa village of Junbesi, promising another day of scenic beauty and cultural immersion. After a hearty breakfast, start your trek by descending along the ridgeline. From there, you'll encounter several route options leading to Junbesi village.
One intriguing option is a shortcut trail branching off shortly after Jase Bhanjyang. This path meanders through majestic old-growth forests on a steep decline, eventually reaching Taktor village.
Actually, this route intersects with the classic Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek, adding to the adventure. After a few hours of walking, you reach Junbesi.
Junbesi boasts a rich cultural heritage, with several significant Buddhist monasteries and stupas dotting the landscape.
One notable landmark is the Thupten Choeling Monastery, renowned for its unique beliefs and traditions. Established in the 1960s, it also serves as a Tibetan Refugee camp. Additionally, you can visit the Edmund Hillary School, adding to the cultural experience.
After exploring the monastery and soaking in the village's ambience, return to Junbesi for rest.
Overnight stay in Junbesi.
Today, take some time to explore the charming village of Junbesi and its surrounding landmarks before setting out on your second-to-last day of Pikey Peak trekking. The familiar scenery unfolds around you, offering picturesque views throughout the journey.
After a satisfying breakfast, begin your trek towards Taksindu, renowned for its stunning remarkable sights along the Pikey Peak trek. Start by crossing the river and ascending the ridge called Shimi Danda. As you continue, enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding forests.
Descending towards the river, you'll cross the Dudhkund Khola on a classic suspension bridge. After an hour of walking, you arrive at Ringmo village, where you can take a brief lunch break amidst picturesque apple farms.
Ringmo village is famous for its apple products like wine, alcohol, pie, and snacks. Continuing, follow a wide path where you may spot wild herbs known as "Tite Pathi", used by locals for medicinal purposes.
After a couple of hours of climbing, you'll arrive at Taksindu Pass, a dramatic viewpoint offering panoramic sights of the mountains ahead, including Thamserku, Kangtega, and Mera Peak. Below, you'll catch a glimpse of the Phalpu airport.
Overnight stay in Taksindu.
On the last day on the Pikey Peak trail, savor every moment as you bask in the staggering Himalayan sights and engage with the warm-hearted locals.
After a hearty breakfast, you'll set off on the trail, winding through verdant forests and charming Sherpa villages. Before reaching Phaplu, take a short uphill detour to visit the serene Taksindu Monastery, nestled amidst the mountains.
As you descend from the monastery, delight in the sweeping mountain vistas and traverse idyllic meadows. Upon reaching Phaplu, you'll feel a sense of achievement as you conclude your trekking adventure.
Check into the cozy tea houses and take a well-deserved break before exploring the bustling markets of the village. Enjoy the vibrant local culture, engage with the friendly locals, and indulge in delectable Sherpa cuisine.
Overnight stay in Phaplu.
Today is the last day of your Pikey Peak trekking adventures as you journey back to Kathmandu. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, begin an early morning drive from Phaplu.
The road stretches approximately 275 kilometers, promising around 8 to 9 hours. You'll begin by ascending the steep hills of the Solukhumbu region before descending through Okhaldhunga, eventually tracing the path alongside the picturesque Sunkoshi River.
Continuing westward, you'll follow the route towards the BP Highway, which leads directly to Kathmandu. Upon reaching the bustling capital city, check into your hotel, refresh yourself, and take some time to relax.
Later in the evening, join the farewell dinner hosted by Nepal Ascent Treks. This is an opportunity to share your trekking experience, exchange photographs, and celebrate the successful completion of your journey with your team.
After enjoying a delightful dinner and creating lasting memories, return to your hotel and unwind.
If you consider extending your stay in Nepal, we offer various trekking and travel packages to explore more of this beautiful country. Feel free to reach out if you need assistance planning your next adventure.
A team of Nepal Ascent Treks will ensure your transportation to the airport, allowing you ample time to catch your flight back home or to your next destination.
We hope your journey with us has been enriching and fulfilling. Safe travels and until we meet again in the mountains!
However, if you're interested in extending your stay in Nepal, we offer several trekking and tour packages. For detailed information, you can contact us directly on WhatsApp.
Are you dissatisfied with this itinerary?
You can customize your holiday. Let us help you tailor-make your precious Vacation.
What's Included
Meal
- Breakfast,Lunch and dinner during the trek.
- Fresh seasonal fruits after the dinner (while on the trek).
Accomodation
- Lodge expenses during the trek.
- Stay in the city at finest hotel (Can upgrade of the accommodations to luxury hotels / lodge is possible at extra cost).
Staffs & Crew
- A porter and his entire expenses.
- Licensed, experienced and English speaking trekking guide.
Transportation
- Airport pickup and drop facility.
- Kathmandu - Dhap and Phaplu - Kathmandu by sharing jeep.
Permits & Paperworks
- All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
Activities
- Full day guided city tour in Kathmandu (Day 2) by a private vehicle.
Other
- Down jackets and sleeping bags (provided upon request).
- First aid medical kit
- Nepal Ascent Treks duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map.
Complimentary Extras
- 1 hour trekkers massage / Yoga after the trip completion.
- Welcome and farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese Restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance.
- Local sim card
What's Not Included
- Cost for additional trips.
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
- Nepal arrival visa.
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
- Tipping to staffs (as an appreciation).
- Travel insurance which covers emergency rescue and evacuation.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
GROUP TOURS
| Trip Date | Status | Price | Book Now |
|---|
Essential Info
Physical Fitness
Many people have questions as to what level of physical fitness is required for visiting Nepal, and that is extremely reliant on what activity the visitor is engaging in. With that said, for a standard trek of moderate grading (Everest Base Camp Trek is an example of moderate) the daily activity will be 7-8 hours, and elevation will generally not exceed 5,500 meters. The day’s trekking is sustained and will involve both long steep climbs, and descents with a variety of terrain underfoot from well-trodden paths, to rocks covered with ice or snow. A typical day would include a number of climbs or descents of 500 meters or more, starting after breakfast, resting at lunch, then continuous trekking until arriving at the teahouse.
In preparation for the trek, it is important to begin a training requirement at least 4 months before departing for Nepal. Three to four hours of aerobic exercise like running, walking, swimming, cycling & some gym work per week is the minimum and most will find it beneficial to add some basic strength training to their physical fitness routine. One of the best ways to prepare is to take practice hikes with a daypack roughly the same weight as what you will be taking on the trek. Do this only after a baseline of fitness has been reached. Moving fast is not the end goal, rather endurance is the focus, and will provide a more enjoyable and safe adventure.
Trekking Seasons in Nepal
There are two main seasons in which Nepal sees the most amount of visitors. Fall (September through November) being the most popular, and spring (March to May) coming in close behind. The summer months of June, July and August are the monsoon season and as such the trails are mostly washed out, and roads can sometimes be impassible due to landslide activates. Not to mention the view is non-existent. Still, there are a few places that lie in rain shadow areas and see significantly less rain if any at all, and summer can be a good time to visit these places.
Winter in Nepal is dry, with very cold nights where temperatures can drop to -20°C at the highest altitudes, but the days are pleasant and sunny. Additionally, the trails are much less crowded during this time of year. In Kathmandu, maximum daytime temperatures reach around 20°C.
Fall is the most popular because it’s after the monsoons, and the air is dry, the days are sunny, and everything is green in the lower valleys from the excessive rains. Spring is a popular choice because some rain returns, but the weather is generally warm and dry, and flowers are in bloom in the lower elevations.
Trekking Day
A typical trekking day begins with a cup of tea at around 6 in the morning. It is advised to pack your trekking gears in a duffle bag and essential supplies in your day pack in these early hours. After having breakfast, we begin the trek and head along the trail at around 8 am. The morning walk is designed to be longer as we begin with refreshed bodies and enthusiasm. Following a good morning’s walk, we make stop for lunch at around 11.30 am. The lunch involves group meals enjoying the vicinity around the stop. You can explore the surrounding or use the time according to your own consent. After resting for about an hour or two, we resume our trek to reach teahouse or camp by 3-4 pm. The afternoon walk is relatively shorter and can involve games and side trips as organized by the trekking guides. You also can enjoy breaks during the trek to relax, read or stroll around the area. You can converse with the local people and observe their lifestyle. Dinner is served around 7 in the evening to round off the day.
Meals and Accommodations
During the length of the trek, the accommodation style is commonly referred to as teahouse. These are family-run basic lodges that fill the role of the restaurant, meeting place, and boarding house for tourists. Electricity can be found in the rooms, which means one light bulb, and one or two outlets for charging electronics. The common areas are also lit by electricity. Teahouses may use solar, hydroelectric, or have electrical lines running into the village, so the commonality and availability of electricity may vary.
Most teahouses have private rooms, though if the trek is in a more remote or high altitude place dormitories are the norm. Each room has 1 or 2 single beds with basic bedding, and the bathroom is shared. Expect a mix of western and squat style toilets in the bathrooms.
Breakfast and dinner are taken at the teahouse and these lodges have large family style dining rooms centered on a stove to provide heat. The menu will have Nepali style western foods such as pasta, pizza, pancakes, burgers, and fries. Also on the menu is the traditional Dal Bhat meal. This is a lentil soup with rice and vegetable or meat curry. Most menus will also offer a smattering of local cuisine.
Travel Insurance
Many expeditions and tours require that travel insurance is purchased prior to arriving in Nepal, but other treks and tours may not. However, travel insurance is definitely an important consideration. There are a number of reasons to consider insurance. Firstly, it may be required, so check to see what is being asked for by the company. Second, Nepal is a landlocked country, and there are few direct flights. Travel in and out can encounter some disruptions and if purchasing insurance, make sure flight delays and cancellations are included. The next reason to choose insurance is that, though every safeguard is in place during your tour, there are always extenuating circumstances that may result in an accident. Read the fine print of insurance policies to ensure trekking or any other activity you are engaging in is covered, as some policies have stopped covering trekking in certain places. It is impossible to have a relaxing trip without the comfort of good insurance, so do the research and choose carefully.
Nepal Visa Entry Procedure
For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions. There are a number of entry points where you can obtain the visa upon arriving by land, but Tribhuvan International Airport is the only one for air transport.
Visa on Arrival Tourist Visa
Three options are available for entry
15-day single entry: US $30
30-day single entry: US $50
90-day multiple entries: US $125
Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.
For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Acute Mountain Sickness is usually seen in un-acclimatized people shortly after ascent to high altitudes. The condition occurs due to the thinning of air as the altitude increases. The condition, if not taken seriously and treated immediately, can be life-threatening and its symptoms can be seen generally above 3000 meters. Some of the symptoms of AMS are nausea, vomiting, tiredness, shortness of breath and cerebral pain. The treks are designed to properly acclimatize you to the change in high altitude climate and sufficient precautionary measures too are taken to take utmost caution. We also equip our staffs with cell phones and satellite phones in occurrence of any emergency cases. We are greatly driven to keep the safety and security of our clients as our foremost concern.
Drinking Water
Water is essential for life, and clean water is imperative while on holiday. When choosing to visit less developed countries it is a concern that all travelers should consider. A few options are available when trekking or traveling in Nepal that will mitigate any chances of drinking contaminated water which could cause disruption of an otherwise fun adventure. The first consideration to take into account is that tap water should not be ingested. That even means when brushing your teeth. Most will choose to buy bottled water and if doing so make sure the cap has not been opened previously. Plastic bottle refuse is a problem, and with that being said there are other options on the market to assist in making water drinkable. Your local outdoor store can help with choosing what option might be best to use in conjunction with a reusable bottle. Your guide can also steer you to water that has been filtered and purified so ask him or her what is available.
Arrival Instruction
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you to pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications.
What our customers are saying us?
Pikey peak trek - Off the beaten Path trek in Nepal
Frances Cudiamat
AF
